The Rangers Report - Offseason Edition

Commenting On The Marlon Byrd Rumors

There have been a lot of rumors recently about the Cubbies wanting to make a trade for Marlon Byrd, ideally to be their centerfielder and to help push Felix Pie.  Apparently, the deal would be for Matt Murton and possibly for pitching prospect Sean Gallagher.

This deal likely doesn't have much legs on it, if any.

First of all, as good as the Byrdman's seaosn was last year, I doubt he suddenly had a breakout in his early 30's.  More than likely, he'll regress to his usual fourth outfielder status come April.

Second, I wouldn't trade Murton for Byrd straight up if I were the Cubs, but if they are willing to do it, I'd pull the trigger.  Hell, I'd even include a pair of relievers in the deal for Murton and Gallagher, likely Scott Feldman and Robinson Tejeda.  Not only would that give the Cubs more options to sift through, it opens up space on the 40 Man for someone.

However, as promising as the deal seemed, I doubt it will happen. 

Complicating things further are the fact that the Padres want Murton as well, though I'm not sure what they would give up in return.  San Diego usually tries to pass off their #### on other teams (as the Rangers would find out during the infamous Chris Young deal) and their GM is a very smart man.  It's very much likely that somehow or another, Kevin Towers will find a way to make any trade a three trade deal, and in return would somehow find a way to screw over the Rangers by managing to net Murton himself and leaving the Rangers on the short end of the stick.

Possible Draft Pick Compensation?

The Rangers could also find themselves enjoying a beavy of picks in next years draft if all falls right (unlikely, but it's good to hope.)

While none of the Rangers' one year commitments are going to be Type A Picks, there could be several first round sandwich picks, depending on what happens:

• Jason Jennings (RHP) - Recovery from a bad year could result in a Type B pick for Texas if he proves to be healthy.
• Milton Bradley (RF) - Staying sane and healthy could get him a job as a DH somewhere.
• Ben Broussard (1B) - Could be the next Ryan Kelsko, getting the Rangers a solid pick without doing much.

All in all, that's potentially three picks for the Rangers if the rankings fall right, five if somehow or another Jennings and Bradley are able to rate as Type A's.